Rama, Kusha and Lava
1890
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1890
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
Dominant colour
Rama, Kusha and Lava is a 1890 paint by Unknown, a Impressionism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
This painting depicts a scene with three figures, all with blue skin. The central figure, dressed in a yellow robe with red accents, wears a red crown adorned with a white plume. He holds a bow in his left hand and appears to be speaking to the two smaller figures seated on the ground before him. They are similarly attired in yellow robes with red accents and wear headbands. The artist's use of bold colors and simple lines creates a sense of intimacy and focus on the central figure's words. The artist's style is reminiscent of Impressionism, with a focus on capturing the play of light and color in the scene. To learn more about this style, explore the Impressionism movement.
A watercolour and tin alloy painting on paper from 1890 depicts Rama reuniting with and recognizing his sons, Kusha and Lava. The work reflects the Kalighat tradition of 19th-century Bengal, characterized by vivid colours, simplified forms, and rapid brushwork. Produced during Calcutta’s tenure as the capital of British India, the painting draws from local mythology and historical themes. The style emerged from artists migrating from rural areas, blending cultural narratives with distinctive visual techniques.
Read the full account in the museum source.
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